Tips for enjoying the warmer weather with care

DOVER — Summer has finally arrived and it’s time to explore the great outdoors whether by land or sea, from behind the grill or taking in a celebration with fireworks lighting the night sky.

But before heading out to indulge in all the recreation this season has to offer, there are some things to keep in mind to stay safe.

If the water is a desired destination, Bill Downey of Portsmouth Kayak Adventures, has everything needed to enjoy local waterways safely, including guided tours and instruction.

“We do a lot, mostly with children, on safety,” he said.

PKA hosts its own camp for children as well as camps from the Chase Home and the Wentworth By The Sea Golf Club Camp educating young kayakers on everything from basic safety to rescue techniques and more.

Downey said one of the most important things to do when kayaking and going out on the water is to check the weather report.

“Radar screens are usually spot on,” he noted.

While he described himself as being aggressive in wanting people to have fun, he also wants them to be safe.

Other ideas, whether hiking or kayaking especially solo, were to let a friend or family member know your plans, or leave an itinerary on the dashboard of whatever vehicle is used for travel.

“Just put a note in your car if you go out alone,” he said, this way, others will realize if you may be in “potential peril.”

While cell phones and water don’t usually mix, he said bringing a cell phone along on a kayaking trip is a great idea since most devices have a GPS. Actual cell phone service might be sketchy, he said, in the middle of a body of water, but it’s just one more device that could help others locate you.

“You’re basically just stacking the deck in your favor the best you can,” he said.

Other safety tips include anticipating “pullout,” or emergency spots. He said it’s best if these locations are somewhere that a vehicle can be accessed in the event someone needs to be transported.

PKA, he said has a handful of these local spots including places near the Elks Club, the Wentworth Marina, Little Harbor School and Pierce Island.

With two camp groups putting on gear, listening to a “paddle talk,” and youths getting ready for individual instruction, PKA was abuzz with activity late Wednesday morning.

Everyone taking part in kayaking there is encouraged to care for their own equipment whether rented or owned.

“Kids will rise tot he occasion if you give them a challenge,” he said.

But if staying closer to home is more desirable than grabbing a paddle and life vest, there are still concerns to consider on one’s own property.

Dover Fire Chief Richard Driscoll said anyone thinking of grilling should keep the device a safe distance from any home or structure.

“We encourage people to grill at least 10 feet to 15 feet from any structure,” he said.

And when using charcoal croquettes, it’s important to ensure they extinguish completely.

An air conditioning unit is one way to stay cool indoors, but it’s important to be aware of how the unit is being powered.

Driscoll said owners should make sure their using a power cord rated for heavy duty use.

And whether leaving an air conditioner running throughout the day in an unoccupied residence is safe, he said as long as it is powered through a properly sized circuit properly rated for the number of amps needed, the device should be fine.

“And we encourage people to stay indoors during the hot, hot days,” he said.

He recommended wearing light clothing and asked that residents take a moment to check on their elderly neighbors especially during heat waves.

Fireworks are prohibited within city limits and though residents may purchase them from local vendors, it is illegal to possess or light them anywhere in the city.

“We ask people not to discharge them anywhere in the city,” he said.

Local fireworks shows are already scheduled throughout communities for the July 4 holiday, but Driscoll said it’s best to leave the displays to the professionals.

“We just don’t want to see a tragedy,” he said, adding that means on the Fourth of July or any other time.

The state Fish and Game Department says “preparation is key for a safe, enjoyable outdoor experience” and lists on their web site a number of points to keep in mind to remain safe on the trail.

Hike Safe is a joint effort between the White Mountain National Forest and the state Fish and Game Department to “educate hikers on the inherent risks of hiking and how they can become better prepared before beginning any hike.”

Fish and Game remind hikers of what responsibilities hikers have for themselves and their safety:

-Hike with knowledge and gear. Become self reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you start.

-Leave your plans. Tell someone where you are going, the trails you are hiking, when you’ll return and your emergency plans.

-Stay together. When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person.

-Turn back. Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your hike. Know your limitations and when to postpone your hike. The mountains will be there another day.

-Be prepared for emergencies. Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather or a wrong turn could become life threatening. Don’t assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue yourself.

-And to share the hiker code with others.

The following items are recommended by Fish and Game for hikers planning a day trip to any trail in the state: map, compass, warm clothing (including a sweater or pile jacket, long pants made of wool or synthetic materials, a wool hat, extra food and water, flashlight or headlamp, matches/firestarters, first aid kit/repair kit, whistle, rain/wind jacket and pants, and a pocket knife.

For information on hiking, visit, http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Outdoor_Recreation/hiking_safety.htm. For information on Portsmouth Kayak Adventures, visit, http://www.portsmouthkayak.com/. And for information on burn permits and fireworks, call the Dover Fire Department at 516-6148.